Your girlfriends can tell you what you need to hear, when you need to hear it most.

Not everyone in your life can be completely candid with you. Girlfriends are always the ones to tell it like it is, even if you don’t want to hear it. Find friends that challenge you and encourage you to be the best version of yourself.

They also believe that ice cream is the solution to any problem.

There is nothing better than sitting down with a pint (or gallon) of ice cream with your closest friends and sharing a meaningful conversation.

Girlfriends know the physical pain of wearing a pair of fabulous shoes-and don’t judge you for ending up barefoot.

We’ve all been there; we have the perfect outfit, great accessories and of course, an incredible pair of shoes. With your excellent personal presence, comes foot pain. The nice thing about having girlfriends is that they are suffering along with you. You can all rejoice when the first person decides to take off her shoes. Free feet for everyone!

You can communicate without words. The “look” says it all.

I don’t need to say anything…because I’m looking at you…and you know what I mean.

After a while, you feel a part of each other’s families.

You get all the perks of being a “guest” when really you’re there far too often. Knowing your friends’ families is an incredible feeling. You get the sense of belonging under more than one roof.

Girlfriends host the best celebrations!

Whether it’s a festive birthday party or a holiday gift exchange, girlfriends know how to make an event entertaining and fun for all.

Group texts become your personal joy.

There are few better feelings than looking at your phone and seeing 29 (or more) text messages. Not only do you feel popular but you know that you are about to open a thread that will surely make your day. Group texts are a place of laughter and comfort, and sometimes a few unflattering photos of one another.

Your gal pals encourage you to do things you considered impossible.

Your friends are the best people to push to be the best version of yourself! They challenge you to try things that are outside of your comfort zone; whether that be trying new foods, playing a new sport or asking for a raise at work. Girlfriends are there to give advice and encouragement.

Girlfriends are the best confidence boosters!

Who better to remind you that you’re awesome than your best friends!? They recognize all the wonderful things about you and remind you of those characteristics when you may not be feeling the most confident. No one gives a better pep talk than your best friend.

They understand the emotional roller coaster that is life, and they are riding next to you in the front row.

Life is full of challenges and successes.  Having women that stick by your side for all of it makes the journey feel like a wonderful adventure.

This month, take time to celebrate the women who have been with you through it all. Happy International Women’s Friendship Month!